The master of arts degree in special education is designed to prepare graduates for positions of leadership in schools, the community and within the overall special education field.
Why Get a Master's in Special Education?
Special education teachers are in high demand. If you're ready to take on leadership, advocacy and scholarship roles for students with disabilities, we greatly encourage you to learn more about a master's in special education.
After earning your degree, you'll be prepared to serve schools, communities and the entire special education industry.
Why Study Special Education at CSUN?
Inclusive Education Leader
We’re nationally known as a leader in inclusive education. We train teachers who are culturally competent and ready to thrive across diverse, dynamic Southern California school districts.
Faculty Who Inspire
You won’t just be another face in a lecture hall — you’ll get to know your faculty members who are just as passionate about mentoring their students as you are about yours.
Large University Resources, Tailored to You
You’ll have access to all the support and opportunities that come with being a student at the largest public college of education in California. The flexibility of our programs designed for working professionals, small cohort sizes and specificity of concentration options ensure you’ll get an education that aligns with your needs and goals.
What You'll Learn
Our program is designed for full-time working teachers to complete in two years and can be combined with the Induction Program.
You'll complete research and a practicum in special education, while taking coursework that emphasizes teaching Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. You'll examine teaching reading and writing, as well as curriculum design and instruction. You must pass the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI) at the required level to enroll in this program.
In addition to research and a practicum in special education, your coursework will emphasize:
- Communication and early literacy development in children with disabilities
- Curriculum and instruction
- Early intervention
This degree is designed to prepare you for positions of leadership, advocacy and scholarship in schools, the community and within the overall profession of special education. Faculty facilitates the development of student competencies in reflective dialogue, presentations and written avenues of expression.
In addition to research and a practicum in special education, your coursework will emphasize:
- Demonstration of competencies as a scholar in the field of special education
- Exhibiting leadership skills in the field of special education
- Serving as an advocate for students with disabilities and their families
Admission Information
To be considered for admission to CSUN as a master’s student, you will need to:
- Meet university requirements.
- Meet department requirements for the Master of Arts in Special Education:
- Apply to both the university and the specific graduate program of interest.
Learn more about applying for a master's program at CSUN.